SKU: 53394736308

couteau de chef japonnais kai

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Description

couteau de chef japonnais kaiDiscover the traditional Japanese knife, inspired by the yanagiba sashimi knives used for centuries in refined Japanese cuisine. This elongated knife with an asymmetrical blade is designed for surgical precision cuts: raw fish slices for sashimi, fine vegetable strips, ultra thin cutlets, cleanly sliced terrines. Its long, thin blade cuts in a single pulling motion, without pressing or sawing the authentic Japanese technique that preserves the

Discover the traditional Japanese knife, inspired by the yanagiba sashimi knives used for centuries in refined Japanese cuisine. This elongated knife with an asymmetrical blade is designed for surgical precision cuts: raw fish slices for sashimi, fine vegetable strips, ultra-thin cutlets, cleanly sliced terrines. Its long, thin blade cuts in a single pulling motion, without pressing or sawing — the authentic Japanese technique that preserves the integrity of the fibers and reveals the visual beauty of the food. Ergonomic and lightweight light wood handle of Japanese tradition (14.5 cm), which perfectly balances the blade. Available in four blade lengths (21, 24, 27 or 30 cm) to adapt to your preparations. A tool for passionate cooks who want to take a qualitative step and discover the art of Japanese cutting. Japanese Tradition 4 Sizes

4 blade lengths to choose from

The longer the blade, the cleaner the cut in a single motion

21 cm
Compact
Individual sashimi, small fillets, thin vegetables
24 cm
Standard
Versatile daily use, reference format
27 cm
Comfort
Large fillets, terrines, sliced meats
30 cm
Pro
Chef's format for large, noble pieces

The yanagiba: the emblematic tool of Japanese cuisine

The yanagiba (柳刃, literally "willow blade") is one of the most emblematic knives of traditional Japanese cuisine. Its characteristic silhouette — elongated, narrow, slightly curved blade, sharpened on one side like Japanese swords — is designed for a very precise function: to slice in a single continuous gesture, by pulling the blade towards oneself, without pressing or sawing the food.

This cutting technique is essential for the preparation of sashimi and sushi: by slicing in a single motion, the integrity of the fish fibers is preserved, the crushing of the flesh is avoided, and a perfectly smooth cut surface is obtained, which reveals the natural beauty of the product. It is this quality of cut that distinguishes sashimi served in an authentic Japanese restaurant from that prepared with a classic Western knife — the difference is immediately visible and gustatory.

Beyond sashimi, the yanagiba excels in all precision cuts: beef carpaccio, Parma ham sliced on site, terrines, salmon gravlax, fine julienned vegetables, decorative fruits. It is a versatile chef's tool whenever clean cutting and careful presentation are concerned.

Advantages of the Japanese knife

Exceptional sharpness
Asymmetrical Japanese-style sharpening for ultra-precise cutting.
Thin and long blade
Cuts in a single pulling motion, without pressing or sawing.
Ergonomic wooden handle
14.5 cm for comfortable and secure grip, lightweight.
Perfect balance
Optimized center of gravity for precision and endurance.
4 lengths available
From 21 to 30 cm depending on your preparations and preferences.
Authentic tradition
Inspired by Japanese yanagiba used for centuries.
THE JAPANESE SPIRIT: CUTTING AS ART
In Japanese cuisine, the act of cutting is not a mere technical step — it is a discipline in itself, taught for years to apprentice cooks (itamae) before they are allowed to handle raw fish for customers. The Japanese knife is the central instrument of this learning: it extends the cook's hand, it transforms the gesture into art, it reveals or betrays the level of mastery according to the fineness of the cut obtained. This philosophy of precision contrasts with the more mechanical Western approach to the kitchen knife, a simple robust cutting tool. Adopting a Japanese knife in one's kitchen means embracing another philosophy of preparation: taking the time for the right gesture, valuing food through respectful cutting, transforming the routine of cutting into a meditative moment. It is also recognizing that the final quality of a dish depends as much on the invisible gestures of preparation as on cooking. A sashimi ruined by cutting will never be saved by seasoning.

Japanese cutting technique: hold the knife with a pinch grip (thumb and forefinger on the blade, other fingers on the handle) for maximum control. Place the tip of the blade on the food, then pull the blade towards you in a single continuous motion — never press or saw. Gravity and exceptional sharpness are enough to cut. For sashimi, use a 30° angle relative to the board for elegant beveled slices. Work on a wooden board (not glass or stone, which damage the edge) and wipe the blade between each cut to preserve aesthetics. With a little practice, you will notice the difference from a classic knife from the first use.

Care: clean the blade by hand immediately after use with a soft sponge and mild dish soap, then dry immediately to prevent oxidation. Never put the knife in the dishwasher, which would damage the edge and the wooden handle. To preserve the wooden handle, occasionally apply a neutral food-grade oil (food-grade linseed oil, mineral oil) with a soft cloth. Store the knife in a knife block or a protective sheath — never loose in a drawer where the blade will be damaged against other utensils. Sharpen with a Japanese whetstone every 2-3 months depending on use (a classic V-sharpener damages the asymmetrical sharpening characteristic of Japanese knives).

Usage precautions: extremely sharp knife intended for adult use only. Keep out of reach of children. Handle with care — the thin, sharp blade of a Japanese knife cuts with the slightest carelessness. Always use a wooden or food-grade plastic cutting board; never cut on glass, stone, ceramic, or stainless steel, which would chip the edge in a few uses.

Do not use for bones, frozen foods, or very hard foods — the thinness of the blade is not designed for these uses, which require a butcher's knife or a cleaver. Improper use can chip or break the blade.

Technical characteristics

Product type Traditional Japanese knife, yanagiba style
Sharpening Asymmetrical (traditional Japanese style)
Handle Light wood of Japanese tradition, 14.5 cm
Available blade lengths 21 cm / 24 cm / 27 cm / 30 cm
Blade thickness Progressive from 3.5 mm to 0.4 mm
Main use Sashimi, sushi, precision cuts
Secondary uses Carpaccio, terrines, gravlax, thin meats, vegetables
Cutting technique Pulling in a single motion (no sawing)
Dishwasher compatibility No — hand wash only
Recommended sharpening Japanese whetstone every 2-3 months
Audience Passionate amateur cooks and professionals

The gift for passionate cooks

The traditional Japanese knife is an exceptional gift for fine cuisine enthusiasts, Japanese gastronomy lovers, or cooks who want to take a qualitative step in their equipment. It is a tool that lasts for years and gradually becomes the privileged companion for careful preparations. Ideal for major birthdays, Father's Day, Mother's Day, weddings (especially for a couple who loves to cook), housewarmings, or professional promotion gifts. Particularly suitable for fans of Asian cuisine, sushi/sashimi enthusiasts, passionate cooks who already have basic equipment and want to add a specialized exceptional tool. For a memorable gift, pair the knife with a noble wooden cutting board, a Japanese whetstone for sharpening, or a Japanese cookbook.

Frequently asked questions

Which blade length to choose from the 4?
The choice depends on your main preparations. 21 cm: compact and manageable, ideal for starting with a Japanese knife and for small preparations (individual sashimi, thin vegetables). 24 cm: versatile standard size, the best compromise for daily use. 27 cm: comfort for large pieces (large fish fillets, terrines, whole ham). 30 cm: professional format for entire noble pieces. If you are unsure, the 24 cm remains the most universal choice for a first Japanese knife.
What is the difference from a classic kitchen knife?
The Japanese knife is distinguished by 3 characteristics: (1) Asymmetrical sharpening (only one side of the blade is sharp, unlike Western knives which are symmetrically sharpened) allowing for a finer cut; (2) Longer and thinner blade designed to slice in a single pulling motion, without pressing or sawing; (3) Different cutting technique that prioritizes precision over force. It takes some time to adapt to fully enjoy its advantages, but the difference in results is immediate on fine cuts.
Is the knife suitable for beginner use?
Yes, but with an adaptation period. The Japanese cutting technique (pulling in one motion) differs from the Western technique (pushing + sawing) — it takes a few weeks of regular use to master the correct gesture. Once mastered, the Japanese knife is more precise and less tiring than its Western counterpart. For a beginner, we recommend starting with the 21 cm or 24 cm, which are more manageable. Avoid very hard or frozen foods that could chip the thin blade.
How do I care for the knife?
Hand wash immediately after use with a soft sponge, then dry immediately. Never put it in the dishwasher. The wooden handle should be occasionally treated with neutral food-grade oil. Store in a knife block or protective sheath — never loose in a drawer. Sharpen with a Japanese whetstone every 2-3 months depending on use (a classic V-sharpener damages the asymmetrical sharpening). With proper care, the knife can last for several decades.
What kind of cutting board can it be used on?
Only on a wooden board (ideal) or food-grade plastic (acceptable). Absolutely avoid glass, stone, ceramic, marble, or stainless steel boards, which would chip the edge in a few uses. Wood is preferred because it is gentle on the blade (preserving sharpness), naturally antibacterial (woods like beech, maple, bamboo), and offers a more precise cutting surface.
Is the knife dishwasher safe?
No, absolutely not. The dishwasher is the enemy of the Japanese knife: (1) it damages the edge due to impacts with other utensils; (2) the heat and aggressive detergents damage the wooden handle; (3) prolonged drying can oxidize the blade. Hand wash only, followed by immediate drying.
Is the knife a good gift?
It is an exceptional gift for fine cuisine enthusiasts, Japanese gastronomy lovers, or cooks who want to take their skills to the next level. A tool that lasts for years. Ideal for major birthdays, Father's/Mother's Day, weddings, housewarmings. For a memorable gift, pair it with a noble wooden cutting board, a Japanese water stone, or a Japanese cookbook.
Shipping Notes
  • Free Standard Shipping on $100+ Orders to the USA.
  • Except Preorder products are shipped in 48 hours.
  • Delivery to the USA:
  1. Standard Shipping : 3-10 business days
  • If time is of the essence, please consider selecting expedited delivery for faster service.
Exchange/Return Notes
  • We offer a 30-day return/exchange service after receiving.
  • Final sale items are not eligible for returns or exchanges.
  • To process your return/exchange, please contact us at [email protected]
  • Please click here for more details>>> Return & Exchange Policy
SKU: 53394736308

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4.5 ★★★★★
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priscilla
Charlottesville, US
★★★★★ 5
My yorkie destroyed
It says it’s very durable so that’s why I bought it although the body and ropes are good the ears on the horse came off in the first day with my small dog so be careful with the ears and other looser things on the animals. The rope untied many times as well not a big deal I just knotted it back but she still loves this toy so it’s okay I’m my book just watch for ripping of ears and other parts on the head of this toy
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Reviewed in the United States on March 2, 2023
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K. B.
Massapequa, US
★★★★★ 1
Head and body ripped after less than 5 min of tug
Color: Scrunch Bunch Bunny, Color: Scrunch Bunch Bunny
The seam beteeen the head and body failed after less than five minutes of supervised tug with a 35 pound dog. This is NOT a tough toy. No reinforced stitching. Absolutely unsafe - a dog could easily rip open the neck and get at the squeakers, which are small enough to be swallowed and lodged in an intestine.
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Reviewed in the United States on April 22, 2026
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Melissa Caban
West Palm Beach, US
★★★★★ 3
Good but not as tough as advertised
Color: Scrunch Bunch Duck
My dog absolutely loved this toy. He was obsessed immediately! It was his (and our) first crinkle toy. He loves the crinkle though it’s a bit distracting for me as it kind of sounds like he’s getting into something he shouldn’t. I love that there are two squeakers, one in the belly and one in one of the handles to squeak on during tug of war. Though he enjoys this toy, the head ripped off during a mild tug only about a few hrs after delivery. My dog is a medium sized 25 lb dog, he is not super strong or a super chewer by any means so I was surprised that it tore so easily. The fabric itself seems strong enough to withstand mild chewing but the seams aren’t as tough as they are advertised. If you don’t mind mending your dogs toys, it’s a very fun toy that’s easy to play with your dog as the handles work well for tug of war, just keep in mind that anything over a small sized dog will probably tear this toy apart during a play session.
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Reviewed in the United States on August 22, 2025
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Madison
Los Angeles, US
★★★★★ 5
Great dog toy
Color: Ranch Roperz Cow
Perfect puppy toy, not too loud, durable for chewing, soft enough for sensitive mouths! Great size for all dogs to have fun!
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Reviewed in the United States on January 25, 2026
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Verified Purchase
P SD
Alexandria, US
★★★★★ 5
Well made, minor issue was quickly resolved
Size: Large, Color: Dinos Bruto (Purple)
I purchased the Dino Bruto Dog toy for my labradoodle who is quite fond of squeaky, squawky stuffed toys and oddly enough has shown a preference for purple. I opened the package with my hound standing by waiting for his gift. I detached the tags and attempted to squeak the toy. It seemed difficult to squeak or honk. I tossed the purple Dino Bruto to my dog who excitedly chomped to squeak. The toy squawked a couple times and then just quit. My poor hound was staring up at me with that "what's up with this" look on his face. I tracked down the website for the GoDog toys, not going through the Amazon return process. I called the good people at GoDog and stated simply that my dog's favorite part of the toy failed quite quickly and I was wondering about guarantees. I was told to go to the website and file a replacement request. The replacement request required that I include a photo which I did as directed. I received an reply email within a couple hours which stated that a new toy would be sent out shortly. I am happy to report that we received a replacement toy, not the purple Dino, but a colorful wood duck. The squawker device works well and is still performing like new more than a month later. It appears that the squeaker is not those little plastic squeakers but the bigger heavy plastic bag, bladder, with what I visualize as a duck call sort of sound device. I am guessing because I haven't seen the inside of the GoDog toys. I have seen the guts of other stuffed toys which use this type of noise device. While our dog seems to enjoy the sound of the plastic bag, bladder set-up squawkers, they seem to fail quickly and I tend to avoid them because of this. The toys using this type of squawker that I have seen, use what looks like a cheap lightweight plastic bag which is not securely attached to the "voice box". Since the GoDog replacement toy is holding up so well, I am guessing GoDog uses a heavier grade plastic bladder coupled with reinforced construction. The purple Dino Bruto toy still looks new even after multiple times of our hound grabbing the purple toy, shaking it at us with his invite to give chase or play keep away. Since the squawker failed so quickly with the new toy, I figure it was just a defective item which does not reflect the general quality of toys from GoDog. One evening our neighbor was visiting while his pitbull was playing in our yard with our dog. Our patio door was open so our dog ran into the house and grabbed his purple Dino Bruto toy. He is a bit of a show-off with new toys. Our dog then went racing back into the yard, shaking his GoDog toy at the pitbull. A quick game of tug-of-war ensued. Since this is a new toy, our neighbor leaped into the game and took the toy away from the dogs. In that short time of tugging between the dogs, the toy held together and did not even pull apart at any of the seams. There were no puncture marks either. This is a game our dog has initiated before with the neighbor pitbull. Normally, the stuffed toys are ripped apart almost immediately. I was surprised and impressed with the quality of the sewing which appears to employ some sort of reinforced construction or heavier material. I plan to make more purchases from GoDog toys. The toys are a little more expensive than some stuffed dogs toys but they hold up so well I figure they are worth a few more dollars. They are great toys that hold up well and the company provides quick responses to inquiries. I consider this a winning combination.
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Reviewed in the United States on June 15, 2013

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